Gary Criddle dies in fatal mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s southwest
Gary Criddle dies in fatal mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s southwest
Fatal Sydney southwest mid-air plane crash death of Gary Criddle – Obituary
Gary Criddle, a 72-year-old veteran Qantas pilot, was identified as one of three victims in a tragic mid-air light plane collision near Sydney’s Belimbla Park on Saturday. The crash, involving a Cessna 182 and a Jabiru aircraft, took place around 11:50 a.m., leading to a devastating scene with three confirmed fatalities.
Criddle, who had a 36-year career with Qantas and prior service in the Navy and Air Force, was flying the Cessna 182 with a 29-year-old passenger en route from Cessnock to Wollongong. The Jabiru aircraft was piloted by a 60-year-old man. The other two victims have not yet been formally identified.
According to family statements, Criddle—known to loved ones as “Gaz”—was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and an admired mentor in the aviation community. Known for his sense of adventure, Criddle had plans to sail the world. “We’re absolutely devastated beyond words and in total shock by this tragic loss,” his family shared, reflecting on his joy, kindness, and contributions to aspiring pilots.
Wreckage from the crash was scattered across bushland near Macarthur, with debris found about a kilometer apart. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is now investigating the cause, gathering evidence from both crash sites and interviewing potential witnesses.
Gary Criddle dies in fatal mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s southwest Fatal Sydney southwest mid-air plane crash death of Gary Criddle – Obituary Gary Criddle, a 72-year-old veteran Qantas pilot, was identified as one of three victims in a tragic mid-air light plane collision near Sydney’s Belimbla Park on Saturday. The crash, involving a Cessna…
Gary Criddle dies in fatal mid-air plane crash in Sydney’s southwest Fatal Sydney southwest mid-air plane crash death of Gary Criddle – Obituary Gary Criddle, a 72-year-old veteran Qantas pilot, was identified as one of three victims in a tragic mid-air light plane collision near Sydney’s Belimbla Park on Saturday. The crash, involving a Cessna…